Stock geometry

[schloss]

I'm currently in the market for a lever gun in 45/70, and I'll most likely be going for a Marlin. The question I have, though, is on the geometry of the stock and recoil control. I've shot both straight and pistol gripped stocks, but haven't done any shooting on heavy 45/70 loads with them. I keep seeing people suggesting that the pistol grip stock handles the recoil better. But is it just due to not busting your knuckles on the lever? Does it really contribute to better recoil management?

I personally don't like the look of pistol grips on lever guns, but if I can back on target faster, and shoot more accurately, it's what I will be going for. My question isn't on aesthetics or tradition, just on shot management. I'm not going for a bolt gun. They just don't handle quick enough for me.

I'm after something light, quick, and hard-hitting. It will be the family bear gun. Right now, I'm planning on attaching a leather rifle scabbard to our jogging stroller. (My wife is still rolling her eyes at my idea)

Appreciate the input.

 

[wwb]

The pistol grip's influence on percieved recoil is insignificant.... Drop at comb, drop at heel, and pitch are the governing factors.

 

[leon670]

I agree with your wife. :mrgreen:

 

[schloss]

I agree with your wife. :mrgreen:

Everyone at the gun store thought it was a very good idea. We're in bear country, and my wife is really paranoid. I don't want a specifically bear and moose protection gun. I'm after something I'll want to shoot routinely.

 

[leon670]

http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=hunting.firearms

http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=hunting.bearsafety

 

[schloss]

http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=hunting.firearms

http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=hunting.bearsafety

???

I already chose my firearm and cartridge. My question is about stock geometry and recoil management.

 

[leon670]

I'd be thinking about jogging stroller scabbard if I were you. Choose the quick draw type with the counter weight to balance the rig at high speeds Maybe a safety harness to keep the little nipper from rolling away while you are emptying that thunderstick at Yogi. :lol: :roll:

 

[wunbe]

Does Alaska permit you to hunt bear with live bait?

1B

 

[leon670]

:lol:

 

[JimHnSTL]

The pistol grip's influence on percieved recoil is insignificant.... Drop at comb, drop at heel, and pitch are the governing factors.

+1 but I will add to that list, profile of butt (guns not the shooters) will also contribute. A slim narrow stock profile at the butt is going to punch/slap harder and sharper than a wider one with more sectional area to distribute the load over. But if your life was on the line I doubt you feel any recoil even if the stock was pencil thin. It's at the range you'll notice it.

 

[schloss]

The pistol grip's influence on percieved recoil is insignificant.... Drop at comb, drop at heel, and pitch are the governing factors.

+1 but I will add to that list, profile of butt (guns not the shooters) will also contribute. A slim narrow stock profile at the butt is going to punch/slap harder and sharper than a wider one with more sectional area to distribute the load over. But if your life was on the line I doubt you feel any recoil even if the stock was pencil thin. It's at the range you'll notice it.

My thoughts exactly, but range time is what builds the muscle memory to be able to make quick, effective shots. If it hurts to shoot, I won't want to be using it enough to be fluent.

 

[JimHnSTL]

Spot on about the range time.

 

[Rumrunner]

I had an 1895ss which is the standard 22" Marlin with a pistol grip. Now I have the 1895gs (stainless guide gun) with the straight stock. I wear a size 14 ring and my hands fit the standard lever even with light gloves. I don't see much difference in the 2 as far as recoil goes.
If you reload you can pracice with light to medium loads and occasionally with bear buster loads. Also a good 400-500 grain hardcast doesn't have to be shot at super velocity to get plenty of penetration.
I think the gs with its quick handling would make a lot of sense up in your neck of the woods.